Automation Engineer

Title: Automation Engineer

Terms: Permanent (No sponsorship offered)

Location: 100% onsite in Andalusia, AL (Relo offered for non-local candidates)

Salary: $82-111,000 per year plus a 5% quarterly bonus

JOB SUMMARY:

Design, configure, deploy, and maintain programmable logic control (PLC) based systems across the site. Responsibilities include upgrading of existing systems, on-going enhancements, and troubleshooting software in a real-time manufacturing environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES:

• Support the up-keep of existing automation. Implement, design, improve, debug, and support new automation.
• Write and follow advanced PLC logic and troubleshooting of logic on multiple platforms, including, but not limited to Siemens, Allen Bradley, Control Logix, and SLC series.
• Install and configure specialized intelligent I/O and communications cards on multiple platforms including Siemens WinCC, Allen Bradley PLC, Control Logix, and SLC series.
• Be familiar with the theory of operation of basic sensing devices such as proximity detectors, visible infrared detection devices, encoders, etc.
• Configure the hardware of the PC on which process control software is installed and develop usable HMI, MMI user interfaces on both process control PC's and dedicated operator interfaces/touch screens.
• Terminate control wiring and program AC and DC frequency drives including systems application drives.
• Be familiar with the operation, application, and troubleshooting of AC and DC motors and frequency drives, stepper motors and controls, and servo motors and controls.
• Be familiar with advanced test equipment, including oscilloscopes, power monitoring devices, etc.
• Be able to write moderate to advanced software applications for accessing and manipulating data from central data warehouses and process/logic controllers.
• Be familiar with basic electrical codes and power distribution systems.
• Be familiar with the theory of digital communications and their various protocols, including Ethernet, Profibus, Device Net, DH+, DH_485, RS-232, RS-485, etc.
• Be able to design and manage the timely completion of moderate to complex projects. This includes oversight of different trades (electrical, mechanical, etc.) both internal and external, material purchasing, and project completion date management.
• Be available to be called in to work including nights and weekends.
• Work with Plant Operations and Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) to identify, define, and implement process control improvements.
• Troubleshoot and resolve problems with PLC’s, process computers, variable speed drives (VSD’s), motor controllers, and feedback control loops.
• Lead in the development of control system projects including formulating objectives, defining functional requirements and specifications, obtaining quotes, estimating man-hours, generating bid packages, etc.
• Design, set up, and conduct control system staging and testing prior to deployment.
• Design, implement, and document new control schemes as needed for process improvement.
• Create and maintain system documentation (program files, blueprints, and computer drawings) as needed in project work.
• Provide automation and controls training to Maintenance Technicians.
• Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor.
• Maintains all equipment in a safe, operable condition.
• Uses hand tools properly and safely.
• Performs routine housekeeping in Maintenance area and other work areas.
• Enters maintenance data in Sharp.
• Complies with Total Productive Manufacturing (TPM) procedures.
• Works normally scheduled days in compliance with the Plant Attendance Policy.
• Works overtime as required.
• Complies with procedures found in our Management System (SMS).
• Assists Maintenance employees, as needed.

Requirements:

• Four (4) year degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering from an accredited university.
• Must be trained and proficient in ladder logic and DCS programming to an advanced level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Expert).
• Working knowledge of Allen-Bradley’s RSView and/or Siemens’ WinCC HMI (one or more years of experience desired)
• Solid understanding of computer control systems as it relates to manufacturing processes, product quality, and process continuity.
• Strong hardware and networking troubleshooting skills
• Strong oral and written communications skills
• Ability to communicate technical details clearly to all levels including subordinates, teammates, supervisors, management, and contractors